City Council

774 ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-REGULAR SESSION February 4, 2019 9:00a.m. The Council of the City of Roanoke met in joint session with the Roanoke City School Board on Monday, February 4, 2019, at 9:00 a.m., in the Council Chamber, Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke, with Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr., presiding, pursuant to Chapter 2, Administration, Article II, City Council, Section 2-15, Rules of Procedure, Rule 1, Regular Meetings, Code of the City of Roanoke (1979), as amended, and pursuant to Resolution No. 41181-070218 adopted by the Council on Monday, July 2, 2018. PRESENT: Council Members Djuna L. Osborne, Anita J. Price, Patricia White- Boyd, Michelle L. Davis (arrived late), Joseph L. Cobb, William D. Bestpitch, and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7. ABSENT: None-0. OFFICERS PRESENT: RobertS. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Daniel J. Callaghan, City Attorney; and Stephanie M. Moon Reynolds, City Clerk. The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum. SCHOOL BOARD TRUSTEES PRESENT: Mark K. Cathey, William B. Hopkins, Jr., Elizabeth C. S. Jamison, Laura D. Rottenborn, Lutheria H. Smith, Richard M. Willis, Jr., and Chairman Annette M. Lewis-?. SCHOOL BOARD TRUSTEES ABSENT: None-0. OTHERS PRESENT: Dr. Rita D. Bishop, Superintendent; Dr. Dan Lyons, Deputy Superintendent; Timothy R. Spencer, Senior City Attorney and Legal Counsel of Roanoke City Schools; Christopher C. Perkins, Chief of Security, Roanoke City Public Schools; Taisha Steele, Director of School Counseling, Roanoke City Public Schools and Cindy H. Poulton, Clerk of the Roanoke City School Board. SCHOOLS: Mayor Lea welcomed everyone to the first joint meeting of City Council and the Roanoke City School Board in the new year and called upon the School Board Chairman for remarks; whereupon, Chairman Lewis congratulated Council Member White-Boyd on her appointment, referenced a study conducted by the Learning Policy Institute and welcomed everyone to the meeting.  775 Highland Park Imagine Me Mentoring Program and Leadership Team presentation: Vice-Mayor Cobb introduced Dr. Mark Crummey, Principal; Tina Malpass, Counselor; Highland Park Elementary School; and Xavier Duckett, Owner and Founder, The Humble Hustle Company. Mr. Crummey explained that the Imagine Me program began four years ago upon completing a book study of the book Wonder and felt the need for a team to promote projects through school in addition to the kindness and consideration illustrated in the book. He pointed out that the students have completed two drives, one for hurricane victims and another to receive support for gloves, hats and socks for the homeless population; and it was important for the students to work together. Mr. Duckett commented that he enjoys working with the students and teaching love because many children do not receive love in their community and if love could be implemented in the schools at least a few times a week, it would change students for the better. Student participants in the program recited a poem entitled Imagine Me; whereupon, several of the Council Members congratulated the students and expressed great pride in their efforts. At this point, Council Member Dykstra entered the meeting (9:25a.m.). Potential Sister City Lijiang, China and high school student/teacher exchange program: Vice-Mayor Cobb advised that he recently traveled to China with the Roanoke Sister City program and upon meeting with teachers and the Head Master Principal, discussion was held with regard to a possible collaborative effort with Roanoke Valley Sister Cities, Lijiang, China and Roanoke City Public Schools to explore a high school teacher/student exchange. Dr. Bishop commented that it was good idea and inquired as to the anticipated start of the program; whereupon, Vice-Mayor Cobb explained that it could potentially begin within a few years. 776 Update on school safety and security: Christopher C. Perkins, Chief of Security, advised that the school system was implementing a layered approach to safety and security which included policies and procedures, hardware and software and creating a positive school culture. He mentioned an upcoming active threat drill to help identify a student or staff member who may need resources and having counselors and social workers in the schools to work hand in hand with first responders. Following brief comments with regard to safety and parent interaction, Mayor Lea inquired if resource officers were in all City schools; whereupon, Mr. Perkins stated that all schools were assigned to a resource officer, had access to an officer and rotated throughout the schools. Teacher salaries and Roanoke City's rank in the region: Dr. Bishop advised that the School Board supported competitiveness and quality of staff and in terms of the region it would certainly be in the top rankings. She pointed out that the bench marking group included Richmond and Portland and the City of Roanoke was ahead of them. Council Member White-Boyd inquired as to the actual numerical ranking for the City of Roanoke; whereupon, Dr. Bishop replied she would review and forward that information at a later date. Update on status of minority employee hiring and retention: Dr. Bishop stated that the School Division was committed to finding a way to ensure that the needle moved in terms of minority hiring and retention; whereupon, Council Member Price added that it was a great decision to hire Tiffany Jordan, Xavier Duckett and Taisha Steele who all do great things and in terms of recruiting and retention, it was imperative to have representation from people that look like the targeted audience. Available programs or opportunities for employee advancement: Dr. Bishop spoke to the new aspiring leaders program for teachers that want to move up which included 33 participants last year, eight were minorities and of those eight, five ultimately received a promotion. Council Member Price commented that it was incumbent upon everyone to offer a word of encouragement; many folks may not have role models to encourage them to achieve higher heights.  777 Role of Social Worker: Chairman Lewis advised that the Schools Division was pleased to have a licensed social worker on staff and the importance of mindfulness training. Taisha Steele, Director of Counseling, spoke to the difference between a social worker and school counselor advising that one out of 18 children has a mental health disorder and have experienced mental health disorders as young as 7 years old. She noted that schools were charged to prepare youth academically and school counselors work in the area of academic achievement and social and mental health as well, but social workers help parents identify needs with learning to bridge the gap between home and school and help resolve issues in the home that can assist with emotional and behavior problems as well. She further advised that the current social worker on staff increased community partnerships and collaborations from 12 to 25; worked on many school projects, such as a hygiene project; held a career fair, jump started the PTA program at Hurt Park Elementary and conducts parenting classes at the community center for parents to be successful in their own right and in the community as well. Following comments by the Council Members with regard to the positive outcomes of the social work projects in the schools, Council Member Osborne inquired about training for the trauma informed schools program. In response it was advised that school counselors, leaders, staff and even bus drivers attended a six hour training session last year and the book studies and resources would be shared with the Council. Active Shooter Drill: Mr. Perkins announced an Active Threat Drill would be held on February 15, a non- student day, at William Fleming High School, at 8:00a.m., broken down into modules and objectives from identifying a threat to reuniting children with guardians safely. He invited the Council to attend the drill and noted that additional information would be forthcoming. Fallon Park Update: Dr. Dan Lyons, Deputy Superintendent, Roanoke City Public Schools updated everyone on the Fallon Park Elementary School construction project, noting it was a phased project that began in March 2018, progress was steady and on March 4, the last modular on the grounds will be removed with total construction to be completed in August 2020. He showed a video tracking the progress and encouraged the Council to schedule a tour of the facility. 778 Update on Extending Recess Time: Council Member Osborne explained that students needed to move and opined that 20 minutes of recess per day was inadequate and recommended two periods of recess per day, 25 minutes each, which coincided with the trauma informed program. Chairman Lewis replied that the School Board would add that item to their agenda for discussion. Mayor Lea added that the meeting was Chairman Lewis' last joint meeting for her term of office ended June 30, 2019; whereupon, Chairman Lewis responded that one more meeting in May remained. Chairman Lewis thanked the Council for their support and opined that the School Board took pleasure in coming together to discuss the exciting things Roanoke was doing in the school district. There being no further business for discussion, Chairman Lewis declared the School Board meeting adjourned at 10:57 a.m. There being no further business for discussion, Mayor Lea declared the Council meeting in recess at 10:57 a.m. ,.,_ At 11:08 a.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the Council Chamber, Mayor Lea presiding, and all Members of the Council in attendance, with the exception of Council Members Davis and White-Boyd. The Mayor called to attention the following items for action: VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL: A communication from Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr., requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss vacancies on certain authorities, boards, commissions and committees appointed by Council; and appointments/reappointments of City Council assignments, pursuant to Section 2.2-3711 (A)(1), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended. (See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)  779 Council Member Bestpitch moved that Council concur in the request of the Mayor as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Osborne and adopted by the following vote: A YES: Council Members Osborne, Price, Bestpitch, Cobb and Mayor Lea-5. NAYS: None-0. (Council Members Davis and White-Boyd were not present when the vote was recorded.) At this point, Council Member Davis entered the meeting (11 :09 a.m.). ANNUAL PERFORMANCES OF COUNCIL-APPOINTED OFFICERS: A communication from Council Member Michelle L. Davis, Chair, City Council Personnel Committee, requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss a personnel matter, being the annual performances of the Council-Appointed Officers, pursuant to Section 2.2-3711 (A)(1 ), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended. (See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Bestpitch moved that Council concur in the request of Council Member Davis to convene in Closed Meeting as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor Cobb and adopted by the following vote: A YES: Council Members Osborne, Price, Bestpitch, Cobb, Davis and Mayor Lea-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member White-Boyd was not present when the vote was recorded.) CITY-OWNED PROPERTY: A communication from the City Manager requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss the disposition of approximately 2.96 acres of City-owned property, located at 2607 Salem Turnpike, N. W., where discussion in open meeting would adversely affect the bargaining position or negotiating strategy of the public body, pursuant to Section 2.2-3711 (A)(3), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended. (See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) 780 Vice-Mayor Cobb moved that Council concur in the request of the City Manager to convene in Closed Meeting as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Price and adopted by the following vote: - AYES: Council Members Osborne, Price, Bestpitch, Cobb, Davis and Mayor Lea-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member White-Boyd was not present when the vote was recorded.) At this point, Council Member White-Boyd entered the meeting (11 :11 a.m.). CITY-OWNED PROPERTY: A communication from the City Manager requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss the disposition of approximately 3.02 acres of City-owned property, located at 5550 Precision Circle, N. W., and 5540 Precision Circle, N. W., where discussion in open meeting would adversely affect the bargaining position or negotiating strategy of the public body, pursuant to Section 2.2-3711 (A)(3), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended. (See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Vice-Mayor Cobb moved that Council concur in the request of the City Manager to convene in Closed Meeting as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Osborne and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Osborne, Price, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Davis and Mayor Lea-7. NAYS: None-0. SECURITY OF THE NOEL C. TAYLOR MUNICIPAL BUILDING: A communication from the City Manager requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss reports or plans related to the security of the Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, situated at 215 Church Avenue, S. W., Roanoke, Virginia, pursuant to Section 2.2-3711 (A)(19), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended. (Withdrawn during Closed Meeting). (See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)  781 Council Member Price moved that Council concur in the request of the City Manager to convene in Closed Meeting as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Bestpitch and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Osborne, Price, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Davis and Mayor Lea-7. NAYS: None-0. ITEMS LISTED ON THE 2:00 P.M. COUNCIL DOCKET REQUIRING DISCUSSION/CLARIFICATION AND ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE 2:00 P.M. AGENDA: NONE. TOPICS FOR DISCUSSION BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF COUNCIL: NONE. BRIEFINGS: Airport Authority Expansion Tim Bradshaw, Executive Director, Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport; and William Gust, Chair, Roanoke Regional Airport Commission, briefed the Council on the possibility of an airport authority expansion. Mr. Gust advised that the City of Salem, Virginia commissioned the Authority to become a part of the Airport Commission and Roanoke County was in agreeance with the joinder. He noted that in order to accept the City of Salem, the contract would have to be amended because, by enabling legislation, the City of Roanoke would always have the majority; and currently the City had three representatives, Roanoke County had two representatives, and if Salem appointed a member the City would have to appoint an additional representative. He continued stating that the City of Roanoke would then have four Commission representatives and the obligation of the contract makes the City accountable for budget shortfalls, but positively, the airport commission had not experienced a budget short fall. Council Member Bestpitch asked if the County sought an additional representative on the Commission as well; whereupon, Mr. Gust replied that the County had not indicated the desire for an additional member and understood that it was written in the legislation for the City of Roanoke to maintain the majority. 782 In response to an inquiry regarding a formal vote by the Council, Mr. Gust advised that verbal approval by all the involved entities would be the initial step; and a follow up meeting scheduled for a later date. Mayor Lea opined that he was in support of the joinder; thanked Messrs. Bradshaw and Gust for their leadership; and advised that the remarks would be received and filed. Budget/Financial Planning Fiscal Year 2020 Amelia C. Merchant, Director of Finance, briefed the Council on the development of the FY 2019 - 2020 budget process. She highlighted the following topics: • FY 2019 Overview • FY 2019 Key Local Tax Performance • FY 2019 Net Local Tax Increase • FY 2020 Local Tax Estimate • FY 2020 Net Local Tax Increase • Preliminary FY 2020 Expenditure Priorities • Next Steps in FY 20,2.0 Budget Development Process • Capital Improvement Program (CIP) • FY 2019- 2023 CIP Projects • FY 2020 - 2024 Capital Improvement Program • Debt Policies • CIP Funding • Results of 2018 BAN -Short Term Impact • Impact on Cash Flow Traditional vs Justin Time Approach • Council Discussion • Next Steps (See presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.) In reviewing FY 2019, the Director of Finance summarized stating that through December, revenues decreased approximately $505,000.00 or 0.47 percent compared to the same period in FY 2018 due to increased receipt of charges for services, real estate tax, sales tax, meals tax offset by lower revenues received associated with Social Services/GSA, transient occupancy and communications tax. She further stated that expenditures and obligations through December increased approximately $1.4 million or 1.04 percent compared to the same period last year, mainly due to the transfer to RCPS, personnel expenses (public safety) offset by the timing of expenses related to Social Services/GSA.  783 In response to inquiry if the public safety expense increase was primarily due to overtime, Ms. Merchant replied in the affirmative as well as overages in the Sheriff's Department which were recuperated in savings. Ms. Merchant continued reviewing each category, noting that FY 2019 key expenditure issues included worker compensation, snow removal at $190,000.00, public safety overtime at $1.3 million, fire temporary employee wages at $120,000.00, fleet parts/sublet vendor at $380,000.00 and tipping fees at $120,000.00. She provided an overview of the Capital Improvement Program, pointing out that the goal was to maintain current capital assets and infrastructure investment for livability and economic development, with focus on the bridge program, curb, gutter and sidewalk, streetscape projects, stormwater improvements, civic center and school maintenance. Ms. Merchant introduced David P. Rose, Senior Vice President and Co-Head of Public Finance, Davenport & Company, who reviewed a few categories which included CIP funding, results of 2018 BAN- short term impact, and impact on cash flow traditional vs just in time approach; advising that the City was currently at an AA+ rating, one step removed from an AAA bond rating, the highest level that a local government can have. He added that the rating agencies were impressed with the City's strong management, robust plan for capital debt, and early debt payoff. Ms. Merchant concluded that information would be presented again at the March 4 Council Meeting which would include data on the FY 2019 budget performance, budget offers and the capital improvement plan. Council Member Bestpitch requested information with regard to public safety employee departures in lieu of full retirement, recruitment and overall staffing of the Parks and Recreation Department in connection with greenway maintenance; whereupon, the City Manager advised that the information was forthcoming and could be shared individually and with Council as whole. Vice-Mayor Cobb inquired as to the items labeled "to be determined" and when that information would be provided; whereupon, the City Manager replied that the information would be more refined in March, but the Parks and Recreation Master Plan had yet to be finalized, so those numbers would be estimates. Council Member White-Boyd inquired as to the factors in calculating the bond rating for the City of Roanoke; whereupon, the City Manager advised that the information would be included in the March 4 budget briefing. Mayor Lea thanked Ms. Merchant for the informative presentation and advised that the budget briefing would be received and filed. 784 At 12:16 p.m., the Mayor declared the Council Meeting in recess for a Closed Meeting to be held in the Council's Conference Room, Room 451; and thereafter reconvened at 2:00p.m., in the Council Chamber. At 2:00 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the Council Chamber, with Vice-Mayor Cobb presiding. PRESENT: Council Members Djuna L. Osborne, Anita J. Price, Patricia White-Boyd, William D. Bestpitch, Joseph L. Cobb, Michelle L. Davis and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr. (arrived late)-7. ABSENT: None-0. The Vice-Mayor declared the existence of a quorum. At this point, Mayor Lea entered the meeting (2:05p.m.). OFFICERS PRESENT: RobertS. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Daniel J. Callaghan, City Attorney; and Stephanie M. Moon Reynolds, City Clerk. The Invocation was delivered by The Reverend Jenny Call, Chaplain, Hollins University. The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr. PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS: NONE. HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS: The Mayor advised that City Council sets this time as a priority for citizens to be heard. All matters would be referred to the City Manager for response, recommendation or report to Council, as he may deem appropriate. POLICY AND PUBLIC EDUCATION: Alexandros Filth, 319-A Mountain Avenue, S. W., appeared before Council with regard to policy and public education. CONSENT AGENDA The Mayor advised that all matters listed under the Consent Agenda were considered to be routine by the Members of Council and would be enacted by one motion in the form, or forms, listed on the Consent Agenda, and if discussion was desired, the item would be removed from the Consent Agenda and considered separately.  785 Mayor Lea pointed out Item C-4 would be removed and considered separately due to a personal conflict of Council Member Davis inasmuch as her employer, Boys & Girls Club of Southwest Virginia, Inc., has an interest in a lease transaction with Restoration Housing, who are involved in a transaction related to the vacation and release of the slope easement. MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF CITY COUNCIL: Minutes of the regular meetings of City Council held on Monday, December 17, 2018; Monday, January 7, 2019; and recessed meeting on Wednesday, January 16, 2019, were before the body. (See Minutes on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Vice-Mayor Cobb moved that the reading of the minutes be dispensed with and approved as recorded. The motion seconded by Council Member Bestpitch and adopted by the following vote: A YES: Council Members Osborne, Price, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Davis and Mayor Lea-7. NAYS: None-0. BLUE HILLS DRIVE, N. E.: A communication from the City Manager requesting that Council schedule a public hearing to be held on Tuesday, February 19, 2019, at 7:00p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, or such later date and time as the City Manager shall determine, in his discretion, to consider the vacation of an existing sight distance easement to benefit development along Blue Hills Drive, N. E., was before the body. (See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Vice-Mayor Cobb moved that Council concur in the request of the City Manager as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Bestpitch and adopted by the following vote: A YES: Council Members Osborne, Price, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Davis and Mayor Lea-7. NAYS: None-0. 786 CITY-OWNED PROPERTY: A communication from the City Manager requesting that Council schedule a public hearing to be held on Tuesday, February 19, 2019, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, or such later date and time as the City Manager shall determine, in his discretion, to consider the sale of approximately 0.1145 acres of City-owned property located at Denniston Avenue, S. W .. to Oak Tree Ventures, LLC., was before the body. (See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Vice-Mayor Cobb moved that Council concur in the request of the City Manager as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Bestpitch and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Osborne, Price, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Davis and Mayor Lea-7. NAYS: None-0. OATHS OF OFFICE-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY: Reports of qualification of the following individuals, were before the Council: Xavier Duckett as a Director of the Economic Development Authority of the City of Roanoke for a four-year term of office, commencing October 21, 2018 and ending October 20, 2022; and Dr. Nathaniel L. Bishop as the Roanoke City/Virginia Tech representative of the Roanoke Regional Airport Commission for a term of office ending March 9, 2021. (Due to having filed an incorrect Oath of Office, the Oath was removed for consideration at a later date.) (See Oath or Affirmation of Office on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Vice-Mayor Cobb moved that the report of qualification be received and filed. The motion seconded by Council Member Bestpitch and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Osborne, Price, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Davis and Mayor Lea-7. NAYS: None-0.  787 CITY-OWNED PROPERTY: A communication from the City Attorney requesting that Council schedule a public hearing to be held on Tuesday, February 19, 2019, at . 7:00p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, or such later date and time as the City Manager shall determine, in his discretion, to consider the vacation and release of a slope easement held by the City across City-owned property, was before the body. (See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Davis noted a personal conflict of interest with regard to the abovementioned matter; and read the following Statement of Conflict of Interest into the record: "STATEMENT OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST I, Michelle L. Davis, states that I have a personal interest in Agenda item C-4, of the 2:00 p.m. Session of City Council on February 4, 2019, regarding a communication from the City Attorney requesting that Council schedule a public hearing to be held on Tuesday, February 19, 2019, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, or such later date and time as the City Manager shall determine, in his discretion, to consider the vacation and release of a slope easement held by the City across City-owned property, because my employer, Boys & Girls Clubs of Southwest Virginia, Inc., has an interest in a lease transaction with Restoration Housing, or its assigns, and members of Restoration Housing are involved in a transaction related to the vacation and release of the slope easement. Therefore, pursuant to Virginia Code Section 2.2-3112, I must refrain from participation in this matter. I ask that the City Clerk accept this statement and ask that it be made a part of the minutes of this meeting. Witness the following signature made this 4th day of February 2019. S/Michelle L. Davis Michelle L. Davis, Council Member" (See Conflict of Interest Statement on file in the City Clerk's Office.) 788 Vice-Mayor Cobb moved that Council concur in the request of the City Manager as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Bestpitch and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Osborne, Price, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb and Mayor Lea-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member Davis abstained from voting.) REGULAR AGENDA PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE. PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS: NONE. REPORTS OF CITY OFFICERS AND COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER: CITY MANAGER: BRIEFINGS: NONE. ITEMS RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION: UNITE THE RIGHT ANNIVERSARY RALLY FUNDS: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending acceptance of reimbursement funds from the City of Charlottesville, Virginia, in connection with the Unite the Right Anniversary Rally held from August 10 - 13, 2018. (For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Vice-Mayor Cobb offered the following resolution: (#41373-020419) A RESOLUTION authorizing acceptance of certain funds from the Virginia Department of Emergency Management, and authorizing execution of any required documentation on behalf of the City. (For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 80, page 226.)  789 Vice-Mayor Cobb moved the adoption of Resolution No. 41373-020419. The motion seconded by Council Member Osborne and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Osborne, Price, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Davis and Mayor Lea-7. NAYS: None-0. Council Member Osborne offered the following budget ordinance: (#4137 4-020419) AN ORDINANCE appropriating funding from the City of Charlottesville on behalf of Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM) for the purpose of providing assistance for Unite the Right anniversary rally, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2018 - 2019 Grant Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance. (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 80, page 227.) Council Member Osborne moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 41374-020419. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor Cobb. Following remarks by the City Manager regarding the assistance offered by the Roanoke Police Department, i.e., crowd control and security, Budget Ordinance No. 41374-020419 was adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Osborne, Price, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Davis and Mayor Lea-7. NAYS: None-0. SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending acceptance of additional funds from the Commonwealth of Virginia in support of an early Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program issuance for February 2019. (For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) 790 Council Member Bestpitch offered the following resolution: (#41375-020419) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of funding for the Virginia's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to the City of Roanoke from the Virginia Department of Social Services (VOSS) to be used by the City of Roanoke Department of Social Services (OSS) to support local overtime that may be necessary for the change in the February issuance of SNAP benefits, and authorizing the acceptance, execution, and filing of appropriate documents to obtain such funds, upon certain terms and conditions. (For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 80, page 228.) Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Resolution No. 41375-020419. The motion seconded by Council Member Price and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Osborne, Price, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Davis and Mayor Lea-7. NAYS: None-0. Council Member Bestpitch offered the following budget ordinance: (#41376-020419) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the Commonwealth of Virginia for expansion of Virginia's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) as set forth by the Virginia General Assembly, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2018 - 2019 General Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance. (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 80, page 229.) Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 41376-020419. The motion seconded by Council Member Osborne and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Osborne, Price, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Davis and Mayor Lea-7. NAYS: None-0.  791 ROANOKE RIVER GREENWAY "BRIDGE THE GAP" PHASE II, SEGMENT 1 PROJECT: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending execution of additional change orders to the contract with Crowder Construction Company in connection with the Roanoke River Greenway "Bridge the Gap" Phase II, Segment 1 Project. (For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member White-Boyd offered the following resolution: (#41377-020419) A RESOLUTION authorizing the City Manager's issuance and execution of additional change orders to the City's contract with Crowder Construction Company, for additional construction services for the Roanoke River Greenway "Bridge the Gap" Phase II, Segment 1 Project; and authorizing the City Manager to take such actions and execute such documents as may be necessary to provide for the implementation, administration, and enforcement of such contract, as amended. (For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 80, page 230.) Council Member White-Boyd moved the adoption of Resolution No. 41377-020419. The motion seconded by Council Member Osborne and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Osborne, Price, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Davis and Mayor Lea-7. NAYS: None-0. COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER. Leadership College Begins in March • Registration is open for the 2018 Leadership College. • Starting March 21, classes will be held on Thursday evenings for nine weeks at the Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building in Room 159 from 6 to 9 p.m. • The program is free, but seating is limited. Register online at roanokeva.gov/leadershipcollege or call853-1647. City Receives Snowfighting Award • Once again, Roanoke's Public Works Department has received the Salt Institute's Safe and Sustainable Snowfighting Award. Roanoke has won this award every year since 2012. • We are among 55 winter maintenance facilities across the United States and Canada that were recognized with the award. • Recipients must meet or exceed nearly 70 different criteria covering storage, equipment, safety, environmental protection, and service. 792 • We appreciate the efforts of all employees who are involved in our snow operations, and their direct influence on ensuring that our schools, businesses, and residents are able to return to normal activities as soon as is practical after a snow event. REPORTS OF COMMITIEES: NONE. UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE. INTRODUCTION AND CONSIDERATION OR ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS: NONE. MOTIONS AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS: INQUIRIES AND/OR COMMENTS BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF COUNCIL: 2019 HBCU COLLEGE FAIR: Council Member Price announced William Fleming High School, in collaboration with the National Hampton Alumni Association's Roanoke Chapter, would host the 2019 HBCU College Fair on Saturday, February 16, 2019 from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. The event is open to ages 10 and up and sponsored by the Harrison Museum of African American Culture. STRUCTURE IN WASHINGTON PARK: Mayor Lea inquired about the vacanUabandoned structure in Washington Park; whereby, Assistant City Manager for - Community Development remarked that the house was in poor condition, and in danger of collapsing. He agreed to provide additional information to the Council, as requested. VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL: BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS: The Mayor called attention to the expiration of the three-year term of office of Marcus Huffman as a member of the Board of Zoning Appeals ended December 31, 2018; whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations. Council Member Bestpitch placed in nomination the name of Marcus Huffman. There being no further nominations, Mr. Huffman was reappointed as a member of the Board of Zoning Appeals for a term of office of three years ending December 31, 2021, by the following vote: FOR MR. HUFFMAN: Council Members Osborne, Price, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Davis and Mayor Lea-7.  793 LOCAL OFFICE ON AGING ADVISORY BOARD: The Mayor called attention to the upcoming expiration of the one-year term of office of Cindy L. McFall as the City's representative of the Local Office on Aging Advisory Board ending February 28, 2019; whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations. Council Member Bestpitch placed in nomination the name of Cindy L. McFall. There being no further nominations, Ms. McFall was reappointed as the City's representative of the Local Office on Aging Advisory Board for a term of one year ending February 28, 2020, by the following vote: FOR MS. MCFALL: Council Members Osborne, Price, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Davis and Mayor Lea-7. The following Council Appointment/Reappointments were assigned to fill the unexpired term of office of former Council Member John A. Garland, resigned, effective January 2, 2019: Appointed Council Member Djuna Osborne as an Elected Official representative of Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission to fill the unexpired term of former Council Member John Garland ending June 30, 2021. Appointed Council Member Patricia White-Boyd as an Elected Official representative of Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy Committee to fill the unexpired term of former Council Member John Garland ending March 31, 2020. Appointed Council Member Joseph Cobb as an Elected Official representative of Roanoke Valley Transportation Planning Organization to fill the unexpired term of former Council Member John Garland ending June 30, 2020. Appointed Council Member Osborne as the Council Liaison representative, and Council Member White-Boyd as the Alternate Liaison representative of Roanoke Redevelopment and Housing Authority. At 2:36 p.m., the Council Meeting was declared in recess for continuation of Closed Meeting in the Council's Conference Room. At 3:29p.m., the Council Meeting reconvened in the Council Chamber, with Mayor Lea presiding, and all Members of the Council in attendance. 794 CERTIFICATION OF CLOSED MEETING: With respect to the Closed Meeting just concluded, Vice-Mayor Cobb moved that each Member of City Council certify to the best of his or her knowledge that: (1) only public business matters lawfully exempted from open meeting requirements under the Virginia Freedom of Information Act; and (2) only such public business matters as were identified in any motion by which any Closed Meeting was convened were heard, discussed or considered by City Council, with the exception of a request of the City Manager to discuss reports or plans related to the security of the Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, situated at 215 Church Avenue, S. W., which was withdrawn. The motion seconded by Council Member Bestpitch and adopted by the following vote: A YES: Council Members Osborne, Price, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Davis and Mayor Lea-7. NAYS: None-0. There being no further business, the Mayor declared the meeting adjourned at 3:31p.m. APPROVED ATTEST: 9+.0_ - 'rrl.Moo-,~o~ ~Moon Reynbtds, MMeQ"' ~'<!~), Sherman P. Lea, Sr. City Clerk Mayor